2010 Land Rover Model Lineup Introduced at New York Auto Show

Mitsubishi Unveils PX-MiEV Plug-In Hybrid Concept

Mitsubishi may be plunging headfirst into the electric vehicle segment, but it hasn’t completely forgotten about hybrids. For the 2009 Tokyo motor show, the Japanese automaker is showing off its new PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid crossover concept.

Looking much like a butch Outlander, the PX-MiEV is perhaps more notable for what lies underneath its five-door bodyshell. Mitsubishi has equipped the concept with its S-AWC all-wheel-drive system (you’ll find a similar setup in the Lancer Evolution), but uses two electric motors -- one at each axle -- for power. The PX-MiEV has an approximately 30-mile range in EV mode, but a 1.6-liter I-4 can serve as a generator for longer trips. If those journeys also require higher speeds or passing maneuvers, the four-banger can directly power the front wheels -- something that can’t be said for the Chevrolet Volt.

The PX-MiEV can be charged using either a 120- or 240-volt supply at home, or by a high-voltage quick charger Mitsubishi is tinkering with as part of its i-MiEV program. If the owner’s home is equipped with a smart grid power system, Mitsubishi envisions the car’s battery packs can be used as an auxiliary power source in case of a power outage.

Inside, designers were reportedly inspired by an airplane cockpit, but the gauge cluster, center stack, and the rear seat entertainment device all appear to be ripped from the set of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Mitsubishi’s gifted the driver with a host of safety systems, including an around-view monitor (similar to the system in the Infiniti EX), electronic toll payment, and a proximity warning utilizing vehicle-to-vehicle communication.

Mini Bringing Concept to Detroit; Possibly a Crossover

We've learned we'll be seeing an all-new Mini concept at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but the question remains: What is it?

The folks at Motoring File suggest the vehicle in question may be a reincarnation of some form of the Mini Moke, the stripped-down beach buggy built upon the original BMC Mini's mechanicals in the '60s. While not practical for off-roading in the least, it did maintain quite a cult following.

Although we'd be surprised if the Moke formula were to re-appear in a modern car (modern standards do call for some semblance of a crash structure, after all), we could possibly see a mixture of Moke cues with the forthcoming Mini crossover, code-named R60. Few details have emerged on the production R60, but at this year's Los Angeles auto show, executives said the R60 would launch in the third quarter of 2010.

We should hopefully be learning more about this Detroit show car before then, so stay with Automobile Magazine for the latest on the mysterious Mini and other news surrounding the 2010 Detroit auto show.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible Unveiled on Park Avenue

Although it was shown at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show, Maserati's new GranTurismo Convertible made its U.S. debut on Park Avenue in New York City this week.

"New York has always represented power, style and capability. We could not be happier on the enthusiastic reception (of the company's newest selection)," said Mark McNabb, Maserati North America's CEO.

The GranTurismo Convertible -- sold as the GranCabrio in other corners of the world -- is the drop-top variant of Maserati's sexy GranTurismo coupe, and uses the same 433-hp 4.7-liter V-8. Maserati claims the rear seat offers room for two "real adults," although we'd imagine headroom shrinks once the top is deployed.

Although the U.S. launch was held in Maserati's corporate showroom in Manhattan, dealers across the country are currently accepting orders for the GranTurismo Convertible. Buyers will be able to choose from six different colors for the convertible top, 16 different hues for the interior, and for an extra fee, add a set of fitted luggage.

Lotus Evora Convertible Planned for 2011

Lotus is currently preparing for the launch of the 2010 Evora, and it’s already planning to expand the model range with a convertible version.

Given the Evora’s price point, one might expect an electric top for the convertible, but that’s not likely to see production. Lotus has been working hard to develop an electric unit that does not compromise on the company’s values of lightness and chassis rigidity.

“The open-top will need to have a light roof. It’s most likely going to be a soft-top as a hard-top system is very heavy and complicated; that really doesn’t belong in a sports car, and is not a Lotus way of working,” Evora designer Steve Crijns told Autocar.

“It’s not going to be easy to fit the roof in. It will have to go in front of the engine, where the rear seats are now,” added Crijns. “The rest of the car has been designed with the cabrio in mind; the doors, for instance, are styled so that they can accommodate the system without any changes.”

Expect to see variations on the Evora to start appearing within two years. The supercharged models are planned to launch in around two years and the convertible is planned for a 2012

Let Lexus Know

We knew Lexus’s LF-Ch concept was a sneak peek at a premium compact destined for the European market, but the automaker seems interested in offering the car in the U.S. In fact, it seems quite interested in gauging consumer interest in the vehicle before it makes its North American debut, likely at the 2009 Los Angeles auto show.

A new page on the Lexus website allows visitors to not only learn more about the concept, which debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show, but also leave their impressions by means of a quick survey. Judging by the questions, Lexus is most interested in what shoppers think of the exterior form, the viability of a four-door hatchback, and if a hybrid drivetrain is a must-have feature.

We think the car looks a lot like a miniature IS, and that it could prove to be a worthy competitor to BMW’s 1-series and a forthcoming Acura compact offering. Think otherwise? Sound off to Lexus by visiting the LF-Ch page here.

Kia Soulster to Become a Production Model

Remember the Kia Soulster we saw earlier this year at the Detroit Auto Show? If you don't, it's a concept version of the Kia Soul that's had some major work done. The car has been relieved of two doors, its roof, and rear windows, creating an open-air, truck-like vehicle. The design team, proud of its work, is pushing Kia to move forward and make the Soulster a production model.

The Soulster concept, like many others, was introduced as a feeler vehicle for Kia executives to gauge public reaction. With compact pickup sales at a six-year low, the Soulster could easily slide into the segment as consumers move toward smaller vehicles. Kia says with the Soulster, it may be trying to reinvent the compact pickup truck segment that was tremendously popular in the '80s and '90s.

With half-ton pickups priced near that of compact trucks, shoppers often find themselves moving up to a larger truck at a minimal price increase. For Kia to detract consumers from buying full-size pickups, it might need a price in the $10,000 - $15,000 range, according to an executive from another (non-Kia) company.

Will the Kia Soulster see production? We sure hope so.

Pair of Wild Jeep Wranglers Destined for 2009 SEMA Show

The Mopar workshop has been busy over the last few months. The Chrysler specialty division will be showcasing two customized Jeeps Wranglers at the SEMA show next month.

The more conservative of the two is the Overland Wrangler, which modifies a Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon into a mobile base camp. In order to provide the most room for cargo, Mopar ripped out the rear seats, and mounted the fold-out tent and awning on the Wrangler's roof (it also prevents any unwanted visits at night from critters).

More extreme is the Lower Forty Wrangler, which was previewed at Moab earlier this year. Designers fitted the Wrangler with giant fender flares, a necessity to clear the giant 20-inch forged wheels and 40-inch off-road tires. Mopar decided not to raise the truck from its factory ride height to keep the vehicle's center of gravity low. The frame has been fitted with an integrated roll cage, and the spare tire has been relocated to the cargo floor. Mopar sprayed the Lower Forty with its own redeye no.3 paint. The stock V-6 engine was replaced by with a 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi powerplant, while front and rear axles were replaced with beefier housings and brawny 5.38 gearing.

Both Mopar Jeeps will roll onto the SEMA show floor in Las Vegas come November 3.

First International Lonestar Harley Davidson Semi-truck Tours U.S. for Charity

As the first International Lonestar Harley-Davidson Special Edition was presented to its owner, it began a drive for a greater cause. The special edition International truck was presented to owner-operator Chris Hawker last week at the Harley-Davidson headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The truck's first haul is to Jacksonville, Florida, and it will raise thousands of dollars for charity en route. Contributions received along the way will be given to Drive for Jobs. The charity was set up by International's parent company Navistar to train returning veterans for the trucking industry. Navistar will donate a set amount for every mile completed on the trek. An all-points bulletin has been distributed to encourage anyone who sees the Harley-Davidson truck to sign up to win prizes and to make monetary donations. Navistar has been a long-time supporter of the initiative and donated $15,000 earlier this year from DVD proceeds.

The special edition International is powered by a Cummins diesel producing up to 600 hp. Unique wheels and Harley headlamps, which are motorcycle-inspired, are part of the special edition. Interior features include Harley-inspired gauges while logos decorate the interior. Maple wood accents and flooring put the finishing touches on the inside along with an attached sleeper cab. The special edition International starts at $155,000.

Hummer

Despite prior concerns that the Chinese government would block the sale of Hummer to Chengdu, China-based Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company, sources familiar with the negotiations say the sale could be completed this week.

Citing two people familiar with the talks between General Motors and Tengzhong, Bloomberg said executives from the Chinese company may arrive in Detroit early this week, and an agreement could be signed during the trip. The agreement would be subject to U.S. and Chinese regulatory approval.

Concerns arose in June that China's government would not allow Tengzhong to purchase Hummer because of environmental concerns. According to Bloomberg's sources, however, government regulators have no qualms with the sale. A report from the National Business Daily said China's Ministry of Commerce has already reached a consensus to internally approve the deal.

Hummer CEO Jim Taylor has said that the division will remain a U.S.-based company. Several locations are being considered as headquarters, including Detroit and Nashville. Taylor said Hummer will have fewer than 100 corporate employees, and will contract with GM for manufacturing.

If GM successfully closes the deal with Tengzhong, Hummer would be its first jettisoned division. Pontiac will be shuttered by 2010, while deals to sell Saturn to Penske Automotive Group and Saab to Koenigsegg are still pending.

1995 Ford GT90

In 1994, Ford debuted what it called “the world’s mightiest supercar,” the GT90. The incredible concept car was meant to be the spiritual successor to the famous GT40 of the '60s. Now, car collectors and enthusiasts will have the chance to add the car to their collection, as it’s scheduled to be sold to the highest bidder at RM Auctions’ Automobiles of Arizona event.

As was the case with many Ford concepts of the era, the GT90 sports Ford’s “New Edge” design language in full force, making use of many triangular panels and sharp edges throughout the car. The concept made use of a quad-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 that pumped out approximately 720 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque. Ford claimed the car had a top speed of over 253 mph, but we doubt many -- if any -- lucky drivers brought the car anywhere close to that point.

Ford’s SVT staff was charged with building the concept, and largely raided the corporate parts bin to do so. The V-12 was made by combining two 4.6-liter V-8 blocks -- each with two cylinders lopped off -- while the suspension and five-speed transmission were cribbed from the awesome Jaguar XJ220.

The RM Auctions of Arizona event -- which already features a number of historic concepts slated to roll across the auction block -- marks the first time the GT90 will be offered for sale. The car is in proper running condition, but don’t expect to register this beauty for street use. Like other concepts, we imagine this one comes complete with a salvage title.

Viper SRT10 ACR-X

With production of the current Viper slated to end in the summer of 2010, it’s not surprising Dodge is rolling out yet another special-edition snake -- but this particular model is a bit different from the usual tape-and-stripe package. The 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR-X is, in fact, a turn-key, track-ready race car.

Based largely upon the street-legal Viper SRT10 ACR, the ACR-X integrates a number of cues from the GT3-class Viper Competition Coupe, rendering it a lethal weapon on the track -- and, as a result, completely illegal for street use. We imagine this largely stems from the powertrain work. Chrysler’s SRT group gave the 8.4-liter V-10 with custom headers and a low-restriction exhaust, blessing it with 640 hp, 40 ponies over a stock ACR.

In addition, the SRT folks stripped out 160 pounds of weight, installed a customized suspension, full roll cage, race seat, and fuel cell. We’ve yet to see the result for ourselves, but Dodge claims the ACR-X laps Laguna Seca 3 seconds faster than the production ACR, which holds a record for the fastest lap time set by a production car (1:33).

Each ACR-X will run buyers approximately $110,000, and will be eligible to compete in SCCA national events and the Dodge Viper Cup, a new series sanctioned by the existing Viper Racing League.

GM’s Money Back Guarantee

More than 222,000 customers have taken part in General Motors’ 60-day money back guarantee on new vehicle purchases, but fewer than 200 have returned the vehicle they purchased.

GM’s 60-day money back guarantee program was initiated to help build consumer confidence in GM and its four remaining brands. So far, 53 vehicles have been returned and another 140 are in the process of being returned. GM is taking another initiative with the money back guarantee and interviewing each person who returned a car.

“People are not satisfied and we’re going to find out why,” said Mark Reuss, VP of global product engineering at GM. “This is about the best unfiltered consumer feedback we’ve had, and it was suggested by Mr. Whitacre (GM’s new chairman). We’ve got all the [customer] data. We’ve gone to see some of them and we’re calling some of them at night as well.”

Some cars have been returned for reasons such as the customer wanted a more expensive SRX model, disliked a manual transmission Corvette and traded it in for an automatic of the same model, or didn’t like the exterior paint and roominess in a pickup truck. Some buyers walked out of the showroom with another GM-branded vehicle, but others did not, and GM intends to find out why.

Reuss said quality wasn’t an issue for people returning vehicles and that there was no need for a new quality initiative in the company. “The so-called perception gap is a result of what we do,” he said. “We need to hit the ball with the center of the bat in everything we do.”

Aston Martin DBS and V12 Vantage Carbon Black Edition

Aston Martins are rare cars to begin with, but if you’re looking for something a little more exclusive from the British sports car maker, try these new “Carbon Black” special edition models.

Available on both the DBS and V12 Vantage, the Carbon Black editions were reportedly created to celebrate the success of both range-topping models. Since the DBS and V12 Vantage are already high-performance machines, Aston’s simply tweaked the cosmetics on both cars.

Outside, Carbon Black cars receive a special metallic paint color called -- you guessed it -- “Carbon Black.” Each car takes around 50 hours of hand painting to complete, and then undergoes stringent quality checks to ensure the car is painted to the highest standard. Both models also feature unique 10-spoke wheels, while the V12 Vantage Carbon Black receives a special side vent crafted from carbon fiber and black mesh.

Inside the cars, Carbon Black models differ slightly from standard Aston Martin interiors. The stock seats have been swapped for lightweight carbon fiber buckets. As with the exterior, black is the only cabin color choice, and hand-stitched obsidian black leather (with contrasting silver stitching) covers virtually every surface inside. The monochromatic theme continues with trim panels -- they’re finished in piano black instead of the typical engine-turned aluminum look.

Both cars are powered by Aston Martin’s 6.0-liter V-12 producing 510 hp. The engine can be coupled to either a six-speed manual or automatic in the DBS Carbon Black edition, but only a six-speed manual in the V12 Vantage Carbon Black.

Both special edition Aston Martins are available to order now, but final pricing has not yet been set. Aston Martin expects both to be around 5 percent

Alfa Romeo Reveals 170-hp MiTo

Tradition may hold that a four-leaf clover is a sign of good luck, but if it’s found on an Alfa Romeo, it’s usually sign of great power. Such is the case with the new Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde, which will debut at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show.

Although the Quadrifoglio Verde may not be as wild as the MiTo GTA concept shown at the 2009 Geneva motor show, it is the hottest version of Alfa’s small hatchback to reach production. A 170-hp version of Fiat’s new 1.4-liter MultiAir I-4 is squeezed between the front fenders, which helps propel the little three-door from 0-62 mph in just over 7 seconds. The Quadrifolgio also uses Fiat’s new six-speed dual-clutch gearbox as well as a dynamic suspension system, which allows drivers to choose the firmness of the electronic dampers.

These changes are hardly noticeable to bystanders, however, so Alfa sets the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde apart from its siblings with a unique bumper fascia, side skirts, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Though European consumers will be able to buy the car early next year, we’ve heard Fiat is still mulling over the decision to bring the MiTo range – including this model -- to North America.

2010 Acura MDX

For 2010, Acura's MDX crossover receives a mild facelift and some extra content -- and, of course, a slightly higher price tag. The 2010 MDX starts at $43,040 (including a $810 destination charge), about $2100 more than the 2009 model.

That price premium does include some extra goodies. Standard equipment on all MDX trim levels now includes power tailgates, steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, a rearview camera integrated into the rearview mirror, and a new hill start function. 2010 MDXs continue to use the same 3.7-liter V-6 as last year, but it's now bolted to a new six-speed automatic transmission, allowing it to achieve 16/21 mpg (city/highway).

Buyers who opt for the Technology package, which brings the price tag to $46,715, will also receive improved leather seating surfaces, navigation, an upgraded sound system, and iPod integration. The next step is the Technology and Entertainment package at $48,615, which adds a rear-seat DVD entertainment package, heated second-row outboard seats, and a 115-volt power outlet in the front console.

At $52,695, the Advance package tops off the MDX lineup, and adds active cruise control, 19-inch, seven-spoke wheels, blind spot detection, and a collision mitigating brake system. If you want to add the DVD entertainment system, the sticker price grows to $54,565.

Look for the 2010 MDX to arrive at Acura dealerships nationwide this week.

2011 Toyota Sienna

Reports of the minivan's death have been greatly exaggerated. Even in a dreadful 2009, the segment managed more than 400,000 sales. That's way down from its heyday but still more than double the volume of, say, the hotly contested luxury compact crossover segment.

That’s why Toyota, although it has led the charge into crossover vehicles, saw no reason to change the formula of the new Sienna for 2011.

“The Sienna is developed for people who see the minivan as the perfect vehicle,” Toyota vice president Bob Carter said at a recent press conference in Southern California.

You’d be forgiven for not instantly noticing the third-generation Sienna’s all-new, CALTY-designed sheetmetal. Unlike most minivan relaunches of late, there’s been no attempt to excise or hide the van’s main attributes: dual sliding doors, a low ride height, and a sloping, easy-to-see-over hood are all present and accounted for.

Under the skin, the biggest addition is the segment’s only four-cylinder engine. The 187-hp, 2.7-liter, which also powers the Venza, nets 26 mpg on the highway, a new best among minivans. Customers can still opt for a 3.5-liter V-6, and both engines are now paired to six-speed automatics. Otherwise, the Sienna is mostly unchanged mechanically, riding on the same 119.3-inch wheelbase and retaining strut-type front and torsion-beam rear suspensions. All-wheel drive is once again an option with the V-6, and it now actively transmits torque to the rear wheels as needed.

Interior advancements -- traditionally the highlight of any minivan redesign -- are mostly evolutionary. The available rear-seat entertainment system can now play two DVDs at once, meaning less fighting over who watches what. Second-row seats fold and slide all the way forward but still don’t fold down into the floor. Removing and carrying them is not hard -- if you can find a place to stow them outside the vehicle, or course. Cargo volume behind the third- and second-row seats is actually down from last year’s van, although total volume is up by about a foot. For drivers, a backup camera is now standard on all but base four-cylinder models. There’s also a designated compartment between the front seats for purses and man bags, so they

And, believe it or not, there are situations where you might want to drive the new Sienna aggressively. In an apparent attempt to appeal to younger buyers, Toyota is offering a distinctly sporty, V6-only SE model. It includes firmer dampers, springs, and antiroll bars along with nineteen-inch wheels (seventeen-inch aluminum wheels are standard). Sienna chief engineer Kazuo Mori, a go-kart racer on his own time, adds that he personally took charge of retuning the SE’s electric power steering for better feel and precision. Topping it all off are sporty fender skirts and front and rear fascias that make the van look a bit like a plus-size Mazda 5.

Charging up the Ortega highway, with sharp dropoffs to one side and motorcycles buzzing by on the other, the SE demonstrates remarkably good body control. Some minivan buyers might not appreciate the slight ride penalty, as the stiffer dampening exposes the torsion-beam rear axle’s difficulty articulating over imperfect surfaces. The SE-specific power assist however, is perfect for this application, and it makes us wonder why other Siennas are still saddled with completely lifeless, numb steering.

“The Toyota way,” offers Mori with a wry smile, explaining that some higher-ups still feel that Toyota’s family vehicles should offer pillow-soft rides and finger-light steering.

This oversight aside, all Siennas are pleasant and easy to drive. The new six-speed automatics shift smartly and allow even the 187-hp four-cylinder to keep up with stop-and-go traffic and changing gradients. Ride and road isolation are excellent, and the mostly carryover platform remains commendably stiff, emitting nary a rattle or squeak, even on our preproduction test vehicles.

Overall, the new Sienna doesn’t bring any real innovations, but it remains supremely competent and versatile. That, combined with a promised price drop, should be enough to retain the true believers who wear the soccer-mom badge proudly.

GMC Terrain AWD SLT-2

I still don't subscribe to the logic of selling two mechanically identical compact crossovers for the same price under two different brands, but I will admit that I like the Terrain a bit better than I did the Equinox. The beefy, blocky sheetmetal certainly has a more masculine image, which might appeal to people downsizing from something bigger and more truckish.

The Terrain, like its Chevrolet Equinox twin, feels considerably larger than other compact crossovers, attributable both to its actual size - six inches longer and roughly 300 pounds heavier than a Honda CR-V - and to its high beltline and thick A-pillars. The interior appears largely identical to the Chevy's, save for a darker color scheme, but is in any event more stylish and interesting than what you'll find in most non-GM competitors. I was a bit put off at first by the lack of a navigation screen for $33,840, but I soon remembered that with OnStar, one can get turn-by-turn directions beamed right to the radio without having to fuss with entering a destination while driving. Still an underrated feature, I think.

One feature I don't appreciate, unfortunately, is this 3.0-liter V-6. For the extra cost and whopping 5-mpg penalty in highway fuel economy versus the base four-cylinder, this light-on-torque V-6 doesn't provide all that much improvement in drivability and is thrashy to boot. The last-generation Equinox/Pontiac Torrent was available with the 3.6-liter V-6, which seems to make much more sense.

The V-6 provides some appreciable thrust in town and moving around in traffic. I do agree with Zenlea, though, that it's not quite worth the price. Additionally, there's not much grunt for highway passing, and the transmission seems just as busy as in the four-cylinder when you make throttle adjustments at those higher speeds. As in the four-cylinder Equinoxes I've driven, the brake pedal starts with a progressive feel and then stiffens up partway through the travel. You adapt to it quickly, but it seems like something GM could also easily fix.

This was my first time in an Equinox or Terrain without a navigation system. Just as the new General Motors navigation interface is one of the best, the smaller LCD neatly and intuitively displays song information and allows you to browse through satellite radio channels easily. There are still a lot of buttons to control the navigation, Bluetooth, audio, and vehicle settings, but I've quickly adapted to where the most-used functions are.

All-wheel-drive
Tire pressure monitoring system
Side airbags
Side curtain airbags
Automatic headlights
Remote start
1-year OnStar subscription
Power programmable liftgate
18-in. aluminum wheels
Fog lights
Projector beam headlights
Rearview camera
Sunroof
Leather seating surfaces
Heated front seats
Leather steering wheel
8-way power driver seat with memory
Auxiliary audio input
XM satellite radio with 3-month subscription
8-speaker Pioneer sound system
Bluetooth connectivity

Options on this vehicle:
Cargo management system - $245
Rear cargo security cover
Cargo convenience net
Roof rack crossbars

3.0L DI V-6 - $1500
Trailer towing equipment - $350

Key options not on vehicle:
19-in. chrome clad aluminum wheels - $900
Premium audio system with navigation - $2145
Rear seat entertainment system - $1295

Fuel economy:
(city/hwy/combined)
17 / 24 / 20 mpg

Engine:
Size: 3.0L DOHC DI V-6
Horsepower: 264 hp @6950 rpm
Torque: 222 lb-ft @ 5100 rpm

BMW X5 M and 2010 BMW X6 M

The arrival of the controversial X5 M and X6 M might be confirmation that BMW has dumped every engineering principle that made its M cars so distinctive and consistently good for the last thirty years. Until now, all M cars have had a high-revving, normally aspirated engine, a manual or automated manual gearbox, rear-wheel-drive, and a sedan or sports car shell. You won't find a single one of these qualities in M's latest efforts.

The M versions of the X5 and X6 sport-utes go on sale in the fall, but BMW allowed us to drive prototypes at their winter test center in northern Sweden several months ago. Under their skins, the two trucks are the same: both use an M-massaged version of the twin-turbocharged V-8 and the trick rear differential from the X6 xDrive50i. The 4.4-liter V-8 engine has been boosted from 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque to 550 hp and about 500 lb-ft of torque.

Unlike other M cars, there's no delicate balancing of clutch and revs to hinder a clean getaway, and no fiddling with the launch control system, either. Engage 'D' in the regular six-speed automatic transmission, boot the throttle, and the mighty engine slings you forward with a loud, raspy roar - and complete disregard for the behemoths' 4800-pound mass. BMW promises their wundertrucks will be quicker and cheaper than the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

The xDrive all-wheel-drive system has been reprogrammed to send more torque to the rear axle and keep it there. It lets you indulge in long drifts that an M3 would be proud of. Low-grip surfaces emphasize the precision and delicacy of the steering and brakes.

One engineer slipped - doubtless deliberately - that in testing, the X6 M is as quick around the Nürburgring as an M3. You can be as upset as you like about the inherent absurdity of a 550-hp sport SUV, but it's hard to argue with how good these particular ones are to drive.

Price: $95,000 (est.)
Engine: 4.4-liter turbocharged V-8
Power: 550 hp
Torque: 500 lb-ft

Ford Transit Connect Family One Concept

Enough with the cargo haulers - Ford's new Transit Connect is just as well suited to being a people mover, and the Family One Concept, unveiled at this week's New York Auto Show, proves it.

While previous Transit Connect concepts served to illustrate the van's flexibility in a commercial setting, the Family One concept is designed for the family - specifically, Ford says, for "the coolest mom."

"The customers we envisioned," says designer Chiwei Lee, "are cosmopolitan parents in their mid-30s with highly refined design sensitivities." Those apparently include the need to tint the windows, apply a few floral decals, and paint the side doors bright blue. Apart from these unusual touches, the Transit Connect's exterior is mostly stock.

Instead, designers applied their touches to the van's interior, and specifically focused on entertaining those parked in the second row. Movies are projected onto a screen located above the front seats, while door panels, made from a white board, allow kids to doodle to their hearts' content. If they get any marker on the seat covers, they're easily removed, and can be washed inside the home.

The cargo area has also been tricked out with the family in mind. Both a hand sanitizer and sunscreen dispenser are built into a side panel, as are a set of walkie-talkies and a first-aid kit. A stroller fits beneath the cargo floor, and two Razor scooters hang from the cargo door.

Should any of those pieces (inevitably) become lost, Ford's equipped the Family One with its production WorkSolutions system. RFID tags, which can be placed on almost any object (i.e. toys, soccer gear, or perhaps even a small child), alert the driver if any objects are missing

Nissan Nismo 370Z

Nissan's new 370Z may be quite nimble, but those hankering for a track-ready package should consider stepping up to the new 2010 Nismo 370Z, which debuts at the 2009 New York auto show.

Like the Nismo 350Z before it, the new car receives a host of suspension revisions designed to glue the Z to the track. Nismo (Nissan's in-house tuning firm) adds a front strut tower brace, performance dampers, increases the front spring rates by 15 percent, and stiffens the rear coils by 10 percent. Coupled with thicker stabilizer bars, the tweaks increase the 370Z's damping factor by 40 percent in front and a whopping 140 percent in the rear.

In order to provide power to match the track prowess, Nismo also fiddled with the Z's engine. The 3.7-liter V-6 is almost identical to that in a normal 370Z, but thanks to a Nismo exhaust system and a tricked-out engine control module, it sees a substantial boost in power. The Nismo-tuned mill produces 350 hp at 7400 rpm (vs. 332 hp @ 7000 rpm) and 276 lb-ft of torque (up from 270) at 5200 rpm. Nismo 370Zs are only available with a six-speed manual transmission, which is equipped with the trick rev-matching system.

Nismo also modifies the 370Z's exterior, adding a new elongated front fascia. Although it does clean up the Z's front appearance, the new snout also incorporates a chin spoiler and twin canards to improve downforce. New side sills are designed to match, and a giant rear spoiler, inspired by racing-spec Zs, is again part of the package. So too are Rays aluminum wheels - these 19-inch pieces are unique to the Nismo Z, although the large vented disc brakes are culled from the 370Z's Sport Package.

The Nismo model throws in a few interior touches, including red stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Nismo logos on the tachometer and cloth bucket seats, and aluminum-trimmed pedals. Don't look for an iPod dock or navigation - the Nismo 370Z makes do with the base four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system, and options are otherwise limited to selecting one of five paint colors (red, white, silver, graphite, or black).

Nissan hasn't discussed pricing for the new Nismo model, but does expect cars to arrive at U.S. dealerships sometime in June 2009.

Nissan 370Z Roadster

If you enjoyed everything about the 2009 Nissan 370Z except for its fixed roof, the 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster may tickle your fancy.

That fastback roof has been cut away, creating a shapely two-place roadster. We're certain the buxom rear fenders may ignite debate amongst Z fans, but Nissan claims their form, coupled with the soft top's profile, helps the Roadster resemble the coupe when the top is up.

This design strategy is similar to that employed on the new Infiniti G37 Convertible, but the top design itself is radically different. The 370Z still uses a power-folding soft top, although its entire operation - including latching to the windshield header - is done completely automatically. It's fast, too - Nissan says it can be stowed or deployed in as little as twenty seconds.

Features and content groups differ little from those on the 370Z coupe, although Touring models do gain unique leather trimmed seats with mesh inserts. They're similar to those that were offered in the 350Z Roadster, although they're now heated and cooled, and available in grey, black, or maroon hides.

Nissan hasn't announced pricing for the new Z Roadster, but expect cars to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the late summer.

Land Rover LR4

For 2010, the Land Rover LR3 becomes the LR4 (by Land Rover's count it's the fourth generation of the Discovery, as the vehicle is known in other markets). The difference between the LR3 and the LR4 might not be immediately apparent to the casual onlooker. There's a new grille, a new front bumper, and new LED headlamps.

A new interior-dash, door panels, instrument cluster-largely follows the previous design theme but uses more soft-touch materials and groups more functions in the central touch screen. A keyless ignition is now standard and a 360-degree-view camera system is optional.

The most significant changes are mechanical, starting with a new V-8 engine. In place of the old 4.4-liter V-8 is a new, direct-injected 5.0-liter unit. Output jumps to 375 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque (from 300 hp and 315 lb-ft), and Land Rover claims a 0-to-60-mph time of 7.5 seconds. The chassis also has been upgraded, with more powerful brakes, revised suspension geometry, and retuned dampers. The stability control system can now compensate for trailer sway.

Expect the first batches of LR4s to arrive at dealerships in October.